Frank Lampard has retired from professional football, bringing an end to an illustrious 21-year career after a spell in Major League Soccer with New York City.
Lampard, best known for the 13 years he spent with Chelsea, announced that he was hanging up his boots in an official statement. “After 21 incredible years, I have decided that now is the right time to finish my career as a professional footballer,” the former England captain said. “Whilst I have received a number of exciting offers to continue playing at home and abroad, at 38 I feel now is the time to begin the next chapter in my life.
“Looking forward, I’m grateful to the FA for the opportunity to study for my coaching qualifications and I look forward to pursuing the off-field opportunities that this decision opens.”
Lampard’s announcement was met with a widespread show of respect from those in the football world, with everyone from teammates to rivals praising the legendary midfielder.
What a career. Thank you, Frank. #SuperFrank pic.twitter.com/IjolD8EtWp
— Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) February 2, 2017
After all those Chelsea battles & Frank Lampard now retiring, I can finally admit the respect I had for him & that he was a great player!
— Jamie Carragher (@Carra23) February 2, 2017
Good luck, thanks for the memories and all the best for the next chapter of your career, Frank Lampard! #mcfc pic.twitter.com/qzsusKvEdI
— Manchester City (@ManCity) February 2, 2017
Football is filled not only with rivalries, but also with indelible memories. Thanks, Frank Lampard, for your contributions to the game! pic.twitter.com/r64JyTgvPM
— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) February 2, 2017
Happy retirement, Frank Lampard!
607 apps (all-time 3rd highest)
177 goals (4th)
102 assists (2nd)@MyTopps relive an amazing career… pic.twitter.com/fqEtJLmzmk
— Premier League (@premierleague) February 2, 2017
Happy retirement, Frank Lampard! ?
Congratulations on a phenomenal career! ? pic.twitter.com/d7qjPR69A1
— Swansea City AFC (@SwansOfficial) February 2, 2017
Frank Lampard,Its a pleasure knowing and playing against a legendary player like you. You will definitely be missed. pic.twitter.com/PvsgEBtluf
— Ali Al-Habsi (@AliAlhabsi) February 2, 2017
Privileged to witness Frank Lampard's stellar career. Feel sure he has the application to succeed at anything. Act 2 should be impressive.
— Dan Levene (@danlevene) February 2, 2017
Very proud of my husband today ?franklampard https://t.co/PmBqbtrtdh
— Christine Lampard (@clbleakley) February 2, 2017
Lampard also posted his own message to his supporters on Instagram:
Lampard retires as a three-time Player of the Year for Chelsea, with him also being the club’s all-time top goalscorer with 211 goals in all competitions. He’s also the only midfielder to have scored 150 or more goals in the Premier League, with him also having garnered 106 caps for England and more than 300 goals for both club and country.
